Form check on back squat and deadlift please

[Andrew Stilo]

Pain occurring in both lifts causing bouts of sciatica flare ups and discomfort. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you

Bilateral pars defect, Spondylolisthesis grade 1, mild osteophytes contributing to bilateral foraminal stenosis, marginal unroofing of disc, all at L5-S1 level

150lbs Back squat 3x5: October 22, 2024 - YouTube

135lbs Deadlift 1x5:
October 22, 2024 - YouTube

[Mark Rippetoe]

Do not post above-parallel squats on these forums.

[Andrew Stilo]

Okay I’ll keep that noted for any future posts. I think it’s a habit ive picked up from being scared of squatting and deadlifting after my injury. Aside from that is there any other advice you have on my deadlift form or injury management?

[Jason Donaldson]

That deadlift video is only one rep, not five, which is limited material to evaluate. That said, I think the best place for you to start is to work the 5-step setup methodically, step by step, with great deliberation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMt93w2TJQA

You're wiggling around and moving the bar around throughout your setup, which not only messes up your setup (hence affecting the execution of the pull), but also shows that you don't have the "whys" of the setup down yet. Spending the time to dial that in will definitely repay your attention.